Aphasia is loss of the ability to understand or express spoken or written language. It commonly occurs following strokes or traumatic brain injuries. It can also occur in people with brain tumors or degenerative diseases that affect the language areas of the brain. This term does not apply to children who have never developed communication skills. There are many different types of aphasia.

In some cases of aphasia, the problem eventually corrects itself, but in others the condition does not get better.

DYSARTHRIA

With dysarthria, the person has ongoing difficulty expressing certain sounds or words. They have poorly pronounced speech (such as slurring) and the rhythm or speed of speech is changed. Usually, a nerve or brain disorder has made it difficult to control the tongue, lips, larynx, or vocal cords, which make speech.

Dysarthria, which is difficulty pronouncing words, is sometimes confused with aphasia, which is difficulty producing language. They have different causes.

People with dysarthria may also have problems swallowing.

VOICE DISTURBANCES

Anything that changes the shape of the vocal cords or the way they work will cause a voice disturbance. Lump-like growths such as nodules, polyps, cysts, papillomas, granulomas, and cancers can be to blame. These changes cause the voice to sound different from the way it normally sounds.

For dysarthria, speaking slowly and using hand gestures may help. Family and friends need to provide plenty of time for those with the disorder to express themselves.

Stop the use of medications that are causing the problem, if possible. Minimize the use of alcohol. Because patients with dysarthria may be able to express themselves with written words, typing on an electronic device or using pen and paper will help with communication.

For aphasia, family members may need to provide frequent orientation reminders, such as the day of the week. Disorientation and confusion often occur with aphasia. Often, people assume that patients with aphasia are incompetent. But patients and caregivers can sometimes learn nonverbal ways of communicating.

Recognizing and treating depression is also important for people with severe speech and language disorders.

It's important to maintain a relaxed, calm environment and keep external stimuli to a minimum.

Speak in a normal tone of voice (this condition is not a hearing or emotional problem).

Use simple phrases to avoid misunderstandings.

Don't assume that the affected person understands.

Provide communication aids, if possible, depending on the person and condition.

Frustration, profanity, and depression are typical responses in people with aphasia.

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